ST ANN, Jamaica — Veteran dancehall artiste Spragga Benz stamped his class on Rise and Toast, the event which kicked off Best Weekend Ever on Independence Day at Plantation Cove.

With a 30-minute set that chronicled the hits that he is known for, Spragga Benz kept patrons entertained running unchecked with She Nuh Ready Yet, Dolly House and Jack it Up among others.  And the ladies showed their approval.

Fueled by music, fashion and a vibrant clash of eras setting the pace for the weekend ahead, Rise and Toast leaned fully into its Old Skool Fits with New Skool Swagger theme, with patrons turning out in looks inspired by the different generations while DJs moved effortlessly between throwback favourites and current hits.

“The third staging of Rise & Toast on the Best Weekend Ever marked a significant milestone for us as it was the first time we opened the weekend party series. I can confidently say it exceeded our expectations,” Damien Smart, promoter of Rise and Toast told Observer Online.

Patrons pack Plantation Cove for Rise and Toast, the opening event of Best Weekend Ever 2026.

“Our loyal Rise and Toast patrons in the diaspora checked in early and came out in their numbers in support of our event. We had rave reviews about food, and our DJs had the perfect balance between nostalgic classics and today’s biggest hits, creating an atmosphere that resonated with every generation,” Smart added, while commenting on the addition of Spragga Benz to the event’s lineup of entertainment.

“Having Spragga Benz as our headline act made this year’s staging even more memorable. It was his first performance in Jamaica in a while and he delivered. His set was energetic and a fitting reminder of why he remains one of dancehall’s most celebrated performers.”

According to Smart, based on the response from patrons, Rise and Toast will continue to be a part of the Best Weekend Ever package.

“The response reinforces that Rise & Toast has become a signature experience within Best Weekend Ever, and we are excited to continue to be a part of a weekend that celebrates Jamaica’s Independence with the best entertainment package from Jamaica and the diaspora.”

The event, which is sponsored by Smirnoff and Casamigos, also delivered a premium beverage experience that complemented the celebratory atmosphere, giving patrons yet another reason to toast the start of Best Weekend Ever.

Spirits Brand Manager at Red Stripe, Nadine Hylton said the partnership reflects the company’s commitment to creating experiences that resonate with consumers.

“People remember how an experience made them feel, and our brands have a role to play in that. Through Smirnoff and Casamigos, we want to create the atmosphere in a way that feels authentic to each event while giving consumers another reason to come together and celebrate. Best Weekend Ever provides the perfect platform to do that, and we’re excited to be part of another unforgettable staging,” Hylton told Observer Online.

Best Weekend Ever continues its run of events until August 10, bringing together music, lifestyle, fashion, and entertainment throughout the Independence weekend.